This has been a year like no other, and if you’re looking for a way to celebrate its departure — and welcome in a new year — you aren’t alone. This year’s festivities will look a little different, but there are still many ways to safely celebrate. Whether you are looking for a night in, a night out with a special someone or a fun day with the family, Cleveland has a celebration to help you ring in 2021.
Sightsee With These Cleveland New Year’s Eve Activities
As you plan your Cleveland New Year’s Eve 2020, it’s a good idea to double-check with the venue before you go. Since conditions can change rapidly due to weather or changes in COVID-19 restrictions, it’s a good idea to make plans in advance and to call on the day of the event if you’re planning on going out.
Family New Year’s Eve Fun
The kids have been cooped up a lot this year, but December 31 is a great day to turn them loose. We have just the places to do that too! Here are three ideas to get you started:
Have a Happy Noon Year
Let your little ones enjoy a 12 o’clock countdown without staying up late! Massillon Public Library will have a virtual Noon Year’s Eve Party complete with stories, dance party breaks, crafting and a balloon drop. Register in advance at 330-832-9831, ext. 317, so you can pick up your party supply bag ahead of time. Then, join the party at 11:30 a.m. on December 31.
Go Sledding
Get your day started by bundling up and heading for the hills — the sledding hills, that is! Northeast Ohio’s terrain is perfect for a sled ride. What better way to spend the last day of the year? One of your best bets is at Big Met Golf Course, which offers sledding at Tee No. 11 and has a fireplace nearby so the whole family can warm up afterward. You can also find great sledding at Bradley Nature Park’s Sledding Hill, which has picnic tables and a grill for those who are feeling brave and up for a chilly picnic afterward. (Just remember to bring a thermos of hot chocolate!) If you’re looking for other options, Cleveland Metroparks has a complete list to help you find sledding at a park near you.
See the Lights
Many people take down their holiday lights on January 1, so why not use New Year’s Eve as a chance to get a last look? Create your own driving tour of spectacular light displays with this guide to some of the best holiday lights in Northeast Ohio. Or, if you’re a fan of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, make the drive to Wadsworth to see the Wadsworth Griswold House, which pays tribute to Clark Griswold’s holiday decorating skills. You can also visit the Cleveland Public Square from 4 p.m. until midnight to see the beautiful lights of Winterfest.
Fun For Grown-ups
New Year’s Eve is also a great night for adults to get out and play. Here are some options worth considering (certain restrictions apply for safety and may change).
Enjoy an Elegant Evening
If you’ve spent too much time at home in yoga pants this year, a fancy night out may be way overdue. ThornCreek Winery & Gardens’ New Year’s Eve Dinner Celebration could be just the thing! The winery in Aurora is partnering with A Taste of Excellence to present an elegant dinner that begins with a champagne greeting. The cost is $99 (plus tax and gratuity), and it is a reservations-only event. Find out more by calling 330-303-3592 or by visiting them online.
Take Your Fun Home
If you want to celebrate with a nice meal but aren’t ready for a night out, get your fun to go! Michaud’s New Year’s Eve Curbside Dinner-To-Go features a gourmet prime rib dinner, served hot and ready for your festive table. You’ll even get party favors to ring in 2021 from home. Call 440-238-7078 by December 23 to place your order or visit them online.
Get Your Last Laughs of the Year
Black Wallstreet Empire is presenting a Kill Corona New Year’s Comedy Bash where you can eat, drink and be merry. Tickets range from $30 to $100, depending on food and drink options. Comedian Marquan Banks will host the night, which also includes live music and tunes from DJ EQ. The event will be at Chandler Park Plaza from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. Learn more.
Chill in an Igloo
Get an early jump on your New Year’s Eve celebration with a visit to the New Year’s Eve Arctic Igloos at Georgetown & Vosh in Lakewood. For $100, you’ll get two hours in a private igloo for up to eight people, with a full menu available for purchase. Don’t worry, these igloos are heated, and everyone in your group gets a hat and party favors. There’s also a common area with a shared fire pit on each level if you want to venture out! Learn more and check out times and availability.
Get Ready to Ring it In
Whether you’re going out or staying in, have a wonderful time celebrating the end of 2020 and ushering in a brand new year. And while you’re at it, make a resolution to keep your car in tip-top shape throughout 2021 — and remember that Rainbow Muffler & Brake is here to help you do that!
Have a safe and happy New Year from all of us at Rainbow. We look forward to seeing you in 2021!
